3 Ways to Prepare for Hurricane Sandy

Posted 4:44 p.m.

Hurricane Sandy continues its move north and the National Weather Service reports it will impact the Washington region. However, the exact impact and timing are not yet known. The range of impacts could be low, such as minor coastal flooding, to significant if there’s a direct hit, which is still within the cone of uncertainty. With a direct hit, we would experience significant flooding, power outages and tropical storm winds.

At conference call with regional governments this afternoon, the National Weather Service says the most likely scenario for our area right now is a slow, long-lasting system with tropical storm winds, heavy rain/flooding and moderate tidal flooding. The National Weather Service will not have a definitive scenario until at least Saturday.

So while it’s too early to identify path and impacts, it’s never too early to get ready, especially with the uncertainty surrounding this storm.

There are a few things you can do now in advance of the storm. We need the whole community — families, businesses, nonprofits, faith communities and other key groups — to prepare:

1.) Get Emergency Supplies

Buy extra water. One gallon of water per person (and pet) per day is recommended for drinking and sanitation.

Buy an extra bag (or cans) of food for your pet.

Withdraw some extra cash from your bank or ask for cash back at a grocery store so you can make purchases in case there are power outages.

Review your infant and young children supplies essential to you as a parent or someone who may be taking care of a young child.

Pickup an extra package or two of the most commonly used batteries in your home.

Purchase extra over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin or children’s medications you frequently use.

2.) Clear Leaves From Storm Drains.

It’s fall and our trees are showing off their reds and oranges, but many leaves have hit the ground. Keep storm drains clear in case we receive inches of rain. If you live within a homeowner’s association or apartment complex check in to see if they plan to clear common areas.

3.) Stay Informed

Share this blog post with your family/friends/coworkers and ask them to subscribe to posts by email. This blog will provide updates throughout the storm.

If you use social media sites, then follow us on Facebook or Twitter. Be an information ambassador for us and share/retweet updates. If using Twitter, help us see local tweets by using the hashtag #ffxstorm

There’s lots more to do. First, anticipate widespread, lasting power outages and fill your car with gas, get several days worth of non-perishable food, fill a tub and/or buckets & bottles of water so you can stay hydrated and flush toilets, and recharge all electronics. Since we live in the blast zone of the US Capitol, I cannot understand why so many people are always unprepared, even with plenty of warning like this and other storms. It’s too late to order more mobile phone batteries to have them available by 10/29, but you can do so now on eBay and have them ready for all occasions.

Thank you for the information Fairfax County Fire&Rescue Service. We all think of you first when we have a fire situation or need your help for a medical emergency situation. Having said that, as a dangerous weather condition
alert is in effect, you are advising all citizens how we can prepare. Please know how much we appreciate the advice you have listed for us. Thank you again Fairfax County Fire&Rescue Service for all you do for us, and your dedication to protect us.

Lisa, if you would like to update existing information, please call (703)324-9000. You will get an answering machine, so please leave a message. If there are questions, someone from our emergency management office will call you back. Thanks!

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